Polarizing layer having deformation parts of differing thermal deformation, and display device having the polarizing layer

ABSTRACT

A polarizing layer includes a base film and a deformation part provided in an edge of the base film. The deformation part includes first deformation parts formed as the base film is deformed by heat, and at least one second deformation part provided between the first deformation parts adjacent to each other.

RELATED APPLICATIONS

The present application claims priority to Korean Patent Application No.10-2017-0055635, filed on Apr. 28, 2017, in the Korean IntellectualProperty Office, the entire disclosure of which is incorporated byreference herein.

BACKGROUND 1. Field

An aspect of the present disclosure relates to a polarizing layer, adisplay device with the same, and a fabricating method for the displaydevice.

2. Description of the Related Art

In general, a display device such as a liquid crystal display device, anelectrowetting display device, an electrophoretic display device, or anorganic light emitting display device may include a display panel thatdisplays an image and a polarizing layer that is integrated with thedisplay panel or is provided on one surface of the display panel.

The polarizing layer can prevent the reflection of external light orimprove the display quality of the display device.

SUMMARY

Embodiments provide a polarizing layer that allows particles generatedwhen the polarizing layer is cut in a state in which the polarizinglayer is attached to a display panel not to remain in a pad area of thedisplay panel.

Embodiments also provide a display device having the polarizing layer.

Embodiments also provide a fabricating method for the display devicehaving the polarizing layer.

According to an aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided apolarizing layer including: a base film; and a deformation part providedat an edge of the base film, wherein the deformation part includes firstdeformation parts formed as the base film is deformed by heat, and atleast one second deformation part provided between the first deformationparts adjacent to each other.

In a direction parallel to the edge, a length of the second deformationpart may be smaller than a length of the first deformation part.

The second deformation part may be a region formed as the base film isdeformed by heat, and a thermal deformation degree of the seconddeformation part may be larger than a thermal deformation degree of thefirst deformation part.

In a direction vertical to the edge, a width of the second deformationpart may be larger than a width of the first deformation part.

The second deformation part may have a shape protruding from the edge.

The base film may include two first sides facing each other, and twosecond sides facing each other, the second sides connecting the firstsides to each other. The second deformation part may be provided at eachof the second sides.

The base film may include: a linear polarizing layer; and a retardationlayer provided on the linear polarizing layer.

The retardation layer may allow the phase of light incident thereinto tobe moved by ¼λ.

According to another aspect of the present disclosure, there is provideda display device including: a display panel including a display area anda non-display area adjacent to the display area; and a polarizing layerprovided on one surface of the display panel, the polarizing layercovering at least the display area, wherein the polarizing layerincludes: a base film; and a deformation part provided at an edge of thebase film, wherein the edge of the base film corresponds to an edge ofthe display panel, wherein the deformation part includes firstdeformation parts formed as the base film is deformed by heat, and atleast one second deformation part provided between the first deformationparts adjacent to each other.

The base film may include: a linear polarizing layer; and a retardationlayer provided between the linear polarizing layer and the displaypanel.

The non-display area may include pad areas respectively provided at bothsides of the display area. The edge of the base film may include twofirst sides respectively adjacent to the pad areas, the first sidesfacing each other, and two second sides facing each other, the secondsides connecting the first sides to each other. The second deformationpart is provided at each of the second sides.

The second deformation part of one of the second sides may be identicalto the second deformation part of the other of the second sides.

The second deformation part of one of the second sides may be differentfrom the second deformation part of the other of the second sides.

The display device may further include a protective film provided on another surface of the display panel.

According to another aspect of the present disclosure, there is provideda method for fabricating a display device. The method includes:preparing a display panel including a display area and a non-displayarea adjacent to the display area, the non-display area including a padarea; providing a polarizing layer covering the display panel except thepad area on one surface of the display panel, the polarizing layerincluding a base film; and cutting a region of the polarizing layer,which protrudes from an outside of the display panel, using a laser. Thecutting includes at least a first cutting process and a second cuttingprocess, wherein a first laser irradiation path of the first cuttingprocess proceeds in a direction away from one point adjacent to the padarea in an edge of the base film along an edge of the display panel,starting with the one point. The first laser irradiation path is changedin a direction inclined with respect to the edge of the display panel ata first point corresponding to the edge of the display panel. A secondlaser irradiation path of the second cutting process proceeds along theedge of the display panel, starting with another point adjacent to thepad area in the edge of the base film. The second laser irradiation pathis changed in a direction inclined with respect to the edge of thedisplay panel at a second point adjacent to the first point.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Example embodiments will now be described more fully hereinafter withreference to the accompanying drawings; however, they may be embodied indifferent forms and should not be construed as limited to theembodiments set forth herein. Rather, these embodiments are provided sothat this disclosure will be thorough and complete, and will fullyconvey the scope of the example embodiments to those skilled in the art.

In the drawing figures, dimensions may be exaggerated for clarity ofillustration. It will be understood that when an element is referred toas being “between” two elements, it can be the only element between thetwo elements, or one or more intervening elements may also be present.Like reference numerals refer to like elements throughout.

FIG. 1 is a perspective view illustrating a display device according toan embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIGS. 2 and 3 are plan views of the display device of FIG. 1.

FIG. 4 is a sectional view taken along line I-I′ of FIG. 2.

FIG. 5 is a sectional view taken along line II-II′ of FIG. 2.

FIG. 6 is an enlarged view of area EA1 of FIG. 4.

FIGS. 7, 8 and 9 are plan views illustrating a fabricating method forthe display device shown in FIGS. 1 to 6.

FIG. 10 is a sectional view taken along line III-III′ of FIG. 7.

FIG. 11 is a sectional view taken along line IV-IV′ of FIG. 8.

FIG. 12 is a sectional view taken along line V-V′ of FIG. 9.

FIGS. 13 and 14 are plan views illustrating display devices according toembodiments of the present disclosure.

FIGS. 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, and 20 are plan views illustrating displaydevices according to embodiments of the present disclosure.

FIGS. 21 and 22 are images illustrating that particles remain in a padarea as laser cutting is performed on a polarizing layer.

FIGS. 23 and 24 are images illustrating that a particle does not remainin the pad area as the laser cutting is performed on the polarizinglayer in accordance with one embodiment.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The present disclosure may apply to various changes and different shape,therefore only illustrated in detail are particular examples. However,the examples are not limited to certain shapes but apply to all thechanges and equivalent materials and replacements. The drawings includedare illustrated in a fashion where the figures are expanded for thebetter understanding.

Like numbers refer to like elements throughout. In the drawings, thethickness of certain lines, layers, components, elements or features maybe exaggerated for clarity. It will be understood that although theterms “first”, “second”, etc. may be used herein to describe variouselements, these elements should not be limited by these terms. Theseterms are only used to distinguish one element from another element.Thus, a “first” element discussed below could also be termed a “second”element without departing from the teachings of the present disclosure.As used herein, the singular forms are intended to include the pluralforms as well, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise.

It will be further understood that the terms “includes” and/or“including”, when used in this specification, specify the presence ofstated features, integers, steps, operations, elements, and/orcomponents, but do not preclude the presence and/or addition of one ormore other features, integers, steps, operations, elements, components,and/or groups thereof. Further, an expression that an element such as alayer, region, substrate or plate is placed “on” or “above” anotherelement indicates not only a case where the element is placed “directlyon” or “just above” the other element but also a case where a furtherelement is interposed between the element and the other element. Inaddition, an expression that an element such as a layer, region,substrate or plate is placed “beneath” or “below” another elementindicates not only a case where the element is placed “directly beneath”or “just below” the other element but also a case where a furtherelement is interposed between the element and the other element.

Hereinafter, exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure will bedescribed in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

FIG. 1 is a perspective view illustrating a display device according toan embodiment of the present disclosure. FIGS. 2 and 3 are plan views ofthe display device of FIG. 1. FIG. 4 is a sectional view taken alongline I-I′ of FIG. 2. FIG. 5 is a sectional view taken along line II-II′of FIG. 2. FIG. 6 is an enlarged view of area EA1 of FIG. 4.

Referring to FIGS. 1 to 6, the display device may include a displaypanel DPN, a protective film PF provided on one surface of the displaypanel DPN, and a polarizing layer POL provided on the other surface ofthe display panel DPN.

The display panel DPN may have various shapes. For example, the displaypanel DPN may have the shape of a closed-shape polygon including linearsides. The display panel DPN may also have the shape of a circle orellipse including curved sides. The display panel DPN may also have theshape of a semicircle or semi-ellipse including linear and curved sides.In an embodiment of the present disclosure, when the display panel DPNhas linear sides, at least some of corners of each of the shapes may beformed in a curve. For example, when the display panel DPN has arectangular shape, a portion at which adjacent linear sides meet eachother may be replaced with a curve having a predetermined curvature.That is, a vertex portion of the rectangular shape may be formed with acurved side having both adjacent ends respectively connected to twoadjacent linear sides, the curved side having a predetermined curvature.The curvature may be differently set depending on positions. Forexample, the curvature may be changed depending on a position at whichthe curve is started, a length of the curve, etc. Hereinafter, forconvenience of description, a case where the display panel DPN has aquadrangular shape is illustrated as an example.

The display panel DPN may display an image. The display panel DPN is notparticularly limited. For example, a self-luminescent display panel suchas an organic light emitting display panel (OLED panel) may be used asthe display panel. In addition, a non-emissive display panel such as aliquid crystal display panel (LCD panel), an electrophoretic displaypanel (EDP panel), or an electrowetting display panel (EWD panel) may beused as the display panel DPN. When the non-emissive panel is used asthe display panel DPN, the display device may include a backlight unitthat supplies light to the display panel DPN. In this embodiment, a casewhere the OLED panel is used as the display panel DPN is described as anexample.

The display panel DPN may include a display area DA and a non-displayarea NDA. The display area DA is an area in which an image is displayed,and may include a plurality of pixels. Each pixel may be any one of ared pixel, a green pixel, a blue pixel, and a white pixel, but thisembodiment is not limited thereto. For example, the pixel may be any oneof a magenta pixel, a cyan pixel, and a yellow pixel. Each of the pixelsmay include a display element OLED, sometime called a display deviceOLED. The display element OLED may be an organic light emitting element.

The non-display area NDA may be provided adjacent to the display areaDA. For example, the non-display area NDA may be provided in a shapesurrounding the display area DA. A pad area PDA may be provided at oneside of the non-display area NDA. The pad area PDA may include aplurality of pads PD. The pads PD may be input/output terminals thatallow the display panel DPN to be electrically connected to anotherelectronic element, e.g., a flexible printed circuit board (FPC).

The display panel DPN may include a base substrate SUB, a driving layerDDL provided on the base substrate SUB, an optical layer OPL provided onthe driving layer DDL, and an encapsulating layer ECL provided on theoptical layer OPL.

The base substrate SUB may be divided into the display area DA and thenon-display area NDA. Pixel areas in which the pixels are disposed maybe provided in the display area DA of the base substrate SUB.

The base substrate SUB may include a transparent insulating material toallow light to be transmitted therethrough. Also, the base substrate SUBmay be a rigid substrate or a flexible substrate. The rigid substratemay include a quartz substrate, a glass ceramic substrate, and acrystalline glass substrate. The flexible substrate may be a filmsubstrate including a polymer organic material and a plastic substrate.For example, the flexible substrate may include one of polyethersulfone(PES), polyacrylate (PA), polyetherimide (PEI), polyethylene naphthalate(PEN), polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polyphenylene sulfide (PPS),polyarylate (PAR), polyimide (PI), polycarbonate (PC), cellulosetriacetate (TAC), and cellulose acetate propionate (CAP). Also, theflexible substrate may include a fiber glass reinforced plastic (FRP).

The material applied to the base substrate SUB preferably has resistance(or heat resistance) against high processing temperature in afabricating process of the display device.

The driving layer DDL is provided on the base substrate SUB, and mayinclude at least one thin film transistor TFT provided in each pixelarea. Also, the driving layer DDL may include a buffer layer BULprovided between the base substrate SUB and the thin film transistorTFT. The buffer layer BUL may include an inorganic insulating material.For example, the buffer layer BUL may include at least one of siliconoxide, silicon nitride, and silicon oxynitride. Also, the buffer layerBUL may have a single-layered or multi-layered structure. For example,the buffer layer BUL may have a single-layered structure including oneof silicon oxide, silicon nitride, and silicon oxynitride. The bufferlayer BUL may include a silicon oxide layer and a silicon nitride layerdisposed on the silicon oxide layer. The buffer layer BUL may includethree or more insulating layers that are sequentially stacked.

The buffer layer BUL may prevent impurities from being diffused from thebase substrate SUB to the thin film transistor TFT. Also, the bufferlayer BUL may planarize a surface of the base substrate SUB.

The thin film transistor TFT may be connected to a gate line (not shown)and a data line (not shown). The thin film transistor TFT may include asemiconductor layer SCL, a gate electrode GE, a source electrode SE, anda drain electrode DE.

The semiconductor layer SCL may be disposed on the buffer layer BUL. Thesemiconductor layer SCL may include one of amorphous Si, polycrystallineSi, oxide semiconductor, and organic semiconductor. In the semiconductorlayer SCL, regions connected to the source electrode SE and the drainelectrode DE may be source and drain regions into which impurities aredoped or injected. A region between the source region and the drainregion may be a channel region.

Meanwhile, although not shown in the drawings, when the semiconductorlayer SCL includes an oxide semiconductor, a light blocking layer forblocking light incident into the semiconductor layer SCL may be disposedon the top or bottom of the semiconductor layer SCL.

A gate insulating layer GI may be disposed over the semiconductor layerSCL. The gate insulating layer GI covers the semiconductor layer SCL,and may insulate the semiconductor layer SCL and the gate electrode GEfrom each other. The gate insulating layer GI may include at least oneof an organic insulating material and an inorganic insulating material.For example, the gate insulating layer GI may include at least one ofsilicon oxide and silicon nitride.

The gate electrode GE may be disposed on the gate insulating layer GI.The gate electrode GE may be connected to the gate line. The gateelectrode GE may include a low-resistance conductive material, andoverlap with the semiconductor layer SCL.

An interlayer insulating layer ILD may be disposed over the gateelectrode GE. The interlayer insulating layer ILD may include at leastone of an organic insulating material and an inorganic insulatingmaterial. For example, the interlayer insulating layer ILD may includeat least one of silicon oxide and silicon nitride. The interlayerinsulating layer ILD may insulate the source electrode SE and the drainelectrode DE from the gate electrode GE.

Contact holes passing through the gate insulating layer GI and theinterlayer insulating layer ILD may extend to and expose the sourceregion and the drain region of the semiconductor layer therethrough.

The source electrode SE and the drain electrode DE may be disposed onthe interlayer insulating layer ILD to be spaced apart from each other.The source electrode SE and the drain electrode DE may include alow-resistance conductive material. One end of the source electrode SEmay be connected to the data line. The other end of the source electrodeSE may be connected to the source region through one of the contactholes. One end of the drain electrode DE may be connected to the drainregion through the other of the contact holes. The other end of thedrain electrode DE may be connected to a display element OLED.

Meanwhile, in this embodiment, a case where the thin film transistor TFTis a thin film transistor having a top gate structure has been describedas an example, but this embodiment is not limited thereto. For example,the thin film transistor TFT may be a thin film transistor having abottom gate structure.

The driving layer DDL may further include a protective layer PSVprovided over the thin film transistor TFT. The protective layer PSV maycover the thin film transistor TFT. A portion of the protective layerPSV may be removed to expose one of the source electrode SE and thedrain electrode DE, e.g., the drain electrode DE therethrough.

The protective layer PSV may include at least one layer. For example,the protective layer PSV may include an inorganic protective layer andan organic protective layer disposed on the inorganic protective layer.The inorganic protective layer may include at least one of silicon oxideand silicon nitride. The organic protective layer may include one ofacryl, polyimide (PI), polyamide (PA), and benzocyclobutene (BCB). Also,the organic protective layer may be a planarization layer that istransparent and flexible to reduce and planarize winding of a lowerstructure.

The optical layer OPL is provided on the protective layer PSV, and mayinclude the display element OLED connected to the drain electrode DE.

The display element OLED may include a first electrode AE connected tothe drain electrode DE, an emitting layer EML disposed on the firstelectrode AE, and a second electrode CE disposed on the emitting layerEML.

One of the first electrode AE and the second electrode CE may be ananode electrode, and the other of the first electrode AE and the secondelectrode CE may be a cathode electrode. For example, the firstelectrode AE may be an anode electrode, and the second electrode CE maybe a cathode electrode.

In addition, at least one of the first electrode AE and the secondelectrode CE may be a transmissive electrode. For example, when thedisplay element OLED is a bottom emission type organic light emittingelement, the first electrode AE may be a transmissive electrode, and thesecond electrode CE may be a reflective electrode. When the displayelement OLED is a top emission type organic light emitting element, thefirst electrode AE may be a reflective electrode, and the secondelectrode CE may be a transmissive electrode. When the display elementOLED is a double-sided emission type organic light emitting element,both of the first electrode AE and the second electrode CE may betransmissive electrodes. In this embodiment, a case where the displayelement OLED is a top emission type organic light emitting element, andthe first electrode AE is an anode electrode is described as an example.

In each pixel area, the first electrode AE may be disposed on theprotective layer PSV. The first electrode AE may include a reflectivelayer (not shown) capable of reflecting light and a transparentconductive layer (not shown) disposed on the top or bottom of thereflective layer. At least one of the reflective layer and thetransparent conductive layer may be connected to the drain electrode DE.

The reflective layer may include a material capable of reflecting light.For example, the reflective layer may include at least one of aluminum(Al), silver (Ag), chromium (Cr), molybdenum (Mo), platinum (Pt), nickel(Ni), and any alloy thereof.

The transparent conductive layer may include transparent conductiveoxide. For example, the transparent conductive layer may include atleast one transparent conductive oxide selected from indium tin oxide(ITO), indium zinc oxide (IZO), aluminum zinc oxide (AZO), gallium dopedzinc oxide (GZO), zinc tin oxide (ZTO), gallium tin oxide (GTO), andfluorine doped tin oxide (FTO).

A pixel defining layer PDL may be disposed over the first electrode AE.The pixel defining layer PDL is disposed between the pixel areas, andmay expose the first electrode AE therethrough. Also, the pixel defininglayer PDL may overlap with an edge portion of the first electrode AE.Therefore, the pixel defining layer PDL may allow a majority of asurface of the first electrode AE to be exposed therefrom.

The pixel defining layer PDL may include an organic insulating material.

For example, the pixel defining layer PDL may include at least one ofpolystyrene, polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA), polyacrylonitrile (PAN),polyamide (PA), polyimide (PI), polyarylether (PAE), heterocyclicpolymer, parylene, epoxy, benzocyclobutene (BCB), siloxane based resin,and silane based resin.

The emitting layer EML may be disposed on the exposed surface of thefirst electrode AE. The emitting layer EML may have a multi-layered thinfilm structure including at least a light generation layer (LGL). Forexample, the emitting layer EML may include a hole injection layer (HIL)for injecting holes, a hole transport layer (HTL) having an excellenthole transporting property, the HTL for increasing the opportunity forholes and electrons to be re-combined by suppressing the movement ofelectrons that fail to be combined in the LGL, the LGL for emittinglight through the re-combination of the injected electrons and holes, ahole blocking layer (HBL) for suppressing the movement of holes thatfail to be combined in the LGL, an electron transport layer (ETL)smoothly transporting electrons to the LGL, and an electron transportlayer (EIL) for injecting electrons.

The color of light generated in the LGL may be one of red, green, blue,and white, but this embodiment is not limited thereto. For example, thecolor of light generated in the LGL of the emitting layer EML may alsobe one of magenta, cyan, and yellow.

The HIL, the HTL, the HBL, the ETL, and the EIL may be common layersconnected in adjacent light emitting regions.

The second electrode CE may be disposed on the emitting layer EML. Thesecond electrode CE may be a semi-transmissive reflective layer. Forexample, the second electrode CE may be a thin metal layer having athickness, through which light can be transmitted. The second electrodeCE may allow a portion of the light emitted from the LGL to betransmitted therethrough, and reflect the rest of the light emitted fromthe LGL.

The second electrode CE may include a material having a low workfunction as compared with the transparent conductive layer. For example,the second electrode CE may include at least one of molybdenum (Mo),tungsten (W), silver (Ag), magnesium (Mg), aluminum (Al), platinum (Pt),palladium (Pd), gold (Au), nickel (Ni), neodymium (Nd), iridium (Ir),chromium (Cr), lithium (Li), calcium (Ca), and any alloy thereof.

A portion of the light emitted from the emitting layer EML is nottransmitted through the second electrode CE, and the light reflectedfrom the second electrode CE may be again reflected from the reflectivelayer. That is, the light emitted from the emitting layer EML mayresonate between the reflective layer and the second electrode CE. Thelight extraction efficiency of the display element OLED can be improvedby the resonance of the light.

A distance between the reflective layer and the second electrode CE maybe changed depending on a color of the light emitted from the LGL. Thatis, the distance between the reflective layer and the second electrodeCE may be adjusted to correspond to a resonance distance, depending onthe color of the light emitted from the LGL.

The encapsulating layer ECL may be provided over the second electrodeCE. The encapsulating layer ECL covers the display element OLED and mayprevent oxygen and moisture from penetrating into the display elementOLED. The encapsulating layer ECL may include a plurality of insulatinglayers. For example, the encapsulating layer ECL may include a pluralityof inorganic layers (not shown) and a plurality of organic layers (notshown). Also, the encapsulating layer ECL may include a plurality ofencapsulating units including the inorganic layer and the organic layerdisposed on the inorganic layer. The inorganic layer may include atleast one of silicon oxide, silicon nitride, silicon oxynitride,aluminum oxide, titanium oxide, zirconium oxide, and tin oxide. Theorganic layer may include one of acryl, polyimide (PI), polyamide (PA),and benzocyclobutene (BCB).

The protective film PF may be provided on a surface of the basesubstrate SUB. In bending of the display panel DPN, the protective filmPF may support the display panel DPN, to prevent the display panel DPNfrom being damaged. The protective film PF may include at least one ofpolyethylene terephthalate (PET), polyethylene naphthalate (PEN),polypropylene (PP), polycarbonate (PC), polystyrene (PS), polysulfone(PSul), polyethylene (PE), polyphthalamide (PPA), polyethersulfone(PES), polyarylate (PAR), and modified plyphenylene oxide (MPPO).

The polarizing layer POL may be provided on the encapsulating layer ECL.The polarizing layer POL may cover at least the display area DA. Thepolarizing layer POL may prevent the reflection of external lightincident into the display panel DPN.

The polarizing layer POL may include a base film BS including a linearpolarizing layer BS1 and a retardation layer BS2, and a deformation partTCR provided at an edge of the base film BS.

The base film BS may include the linear polarizing layer BS1 and theretardation layer BS2. Here, the retardation layer BS2 may be providedbetween the encapsulating layer ECL and the linear polarizing layer BS1.

The linear polarizing layer BS1 may polarize natural light orarbitrarily polarized light into a linearly polarized light in aspecific direction, and reduce the reflection of the external light. Apolarization axis of the linear polarizing layer BS1 may be inclined by45 degrees with respect to that of the retardation layer BS2.

The retardation layer BS2 may allow the phase of light incidentthereinto to be moved by ¼λ. That is, since the retardation layer BS2allows the phase of light incident thereinto to be moved by ¼λ, theretardation layer BS2 may change linearly polarized light intocircularly polarized light or change circularly polarized light intolinearly polarized light.

The deformation part TCR is generated in a process of cutting thepolarizing layer POL, and the cutting of the polarizing layer POL willbe described in detail later. The deformation part TCR may have variousshapes. For example, as shown in FIG. 2, the deformation part TCR mayhave first deformation parts TCR1 and at least one second deformationpart TCR2. The second deformation part TCR2 may be provided betweenadjacent first deformation parts TCR1. The first deformation parts TCR1and the second deformation part TCR2 may be regions formed as the basefilm BS is deformed by heat. Here, a thermal deformation degree of oneof the first deformation parts TCR1 and the second deformation part TCR2may be smaller than that of the other of the first deformation partsTCR1 and the second deformation part TCR2. For example, a thermaldeformation degree of the first deformation parts TCR1 may be smallerthan that of the second deformation part TCR2. In a direction D1parallel to the edge, a length of one of the first deformation partsTCR1 and the second deformation part TCR2 may be different from that ofthe other of the first deformation parts TCR1 and the second deformationpart TCR2. For example, a length of the second deformation part TCR2 maybe smaller than that of the first deformation parts TCR1. In a directionD2 vertical to the edge, a width of one of the first deformation partsTCR1 and the second deformation part TCR2 may be different from that ofthe other of the first deformation parts TCR1 and the second deformationpart TCR2. For example, a width of the second deformation part TCR2 maybe larger than that of the first deformation parts TCR1.

In addition, as shown in FIG. 3, the deformation part TCR may includefirst deformation parts TCR1 formed as the base film BS is thermallydeformed, and at least one second deformation part TCR2 protruding in adirection inclined with respect to the edge. The second deformation partTCR2 may be provided between adjacent first deformation parts TCR1. Thesecond deformation part TCR2 may have a burr or tip shape.

Meanwhile, in FIGS. 2 and 3, a case where one second deformation partTCR2 is provided in the deformation part TCR has been described as anexample, but the present disclosure is not limited thereto. For example,the deformation part TCR may include a plurality of second deformationparts TCR2. In this case, each of the second deformation parts TCR2 maybe provided between adjacent first deformation parts TCR1 among thefirst deformation parts TCR1.

The polarizing layer POL can prevent the reflection of external light asfollows.

First, the external light may be transmitted through the linearpolarizing layer BS1. Here, the light transmitted through the linearpolarizing layer BS1 may be linearly polarized light in which only acomponent vertical to the polarization axis of the linear polarizinglayer BS1 exists.

The light transmitted through the linear polarizing layer BS1 may betransmitted through the retardation layer BS2. The light transmittedthrough the retardation layer BS2 may be circularly polarized light ofwhich phase is moved by ¼λ by the retardation layer BS2.

The light transmitted through the retardation layer BS2 may be reflectedfrom the display panel DPN. The light reflected from the display panelDPN (hereinafter, referred to as a “reflected light”) may maintain thestate of the circularly polarized light.

The reflected light may be again transmitted through the retardationlayer BS2. The phase of the reflected light transmitted through theretardation layer BS2 may be moved by ¼λ by the retardation layer BS2.The reflected light reflected from the display panel DPN may be alinearly polarized light. Here, the reflected light transmitted throughthe retardation layer BS2 may be parallel to the polarization axis ofthe linear polarizing layer BS1. Therefore, the reflected lighttransmitted through the retardation layer BS2 is not transmitted throughthe linear polarizing layer BS1, and may be absorbed into the linearpolarizing layer BS1.

Consequently, the polarizing layer POL can prevent the external lightincident into the display device from being reflected. Thus, if thereflection of the external light is prevented by the polarizing layerPOL, the contrast of the display device can be improved.

Hereinafter, a fabricating method for the display device shown in FIGS.1 to 6 will be described with reference to FIGS. 7 to 12.

FIGS. 7 to 9 are plan views illustrating a fabricating method for thedisplay device shown in FIGS. 1 to 6. FIG. 10 is a sectional view takenalong line III-III′ of FIG. 7. FIG. 11 is a sectional view taken alongline IV-IV′ of FIG. 8. FIG. 12 is a sectional view taken along line V-Vof FIG. 9. In FIGS. 7 to 9, for convenience of description, the shape ofthe display device shown in FIG. 2 is illustrated as an example.

Referring to FIGS. 7 and 10, first, a display panel DPN is prepared. Asshown in FIG. 3, the display panel DPN may include a display area DA anda non-display area NDA. The non-display area NDA may be providedadjacent to the display area DA. A pad area PDA including a plurality ofpads PD may be provided at one side of the non-display area NDA.

In addition, as shown in FIG. 6, the display panel PDN may include abase substrate SUB, a driving layer DDL provided on the base substrateSUB, an optical layer OPL provided on the driving layer DDL, and anencapsulating layer ECL provided on the optical layer OPL.

The base substrate SUB may include a transparent insulating material toallow light to be transmitted therethrough. Also, the base substrate SUBmay be a rigid substrate or a flexible substrate.

The driving layer DDL is provided on the base substrate SUB, and mayinclude at least one thin film transistor TFT provided in each pixelarea. Also, the driving layer DDL may include a buffer layer BULprovided between the base substrate SUB and the thin film transistorTFT. The driving layer DDL may further include a protective layer PSVprovided over the thin film transistor TFT.

The optical layer OPL is provided on the protective layer PSV, and mayinclude a display element OLED connected to a drain electrode DE of thethin film transistor TFT.

The display element OLED may include a first electrode AE connected tothe drain electrode DE, an emitting layer EML disposed on the firstelectrode AE, and a second electrode CE disposed on the emitting layerEML.

The encapsulating layer ECL may be provided over the second electrodeCE. The encapsulating layer ECL may prevent oxygen and moisture frompenetrating into the display element OLED.

After the display panel DPN is prepared, a polarizing layer POL isdisposed on the display panel DPN. The polarizing layer POL may beattached on the display panel DPN using a transparent adhesive (notshown).

The polarizing layer POL may be provided on the encapsulating layer ECL.The polarizing layer POL may prevent the reflection of external lightincident into the display panel DPN. The polarizing layer POL mayinclude a linear polarizing layer BS1 and a retardation layer BS2. Here,the retardation layer BS2 may be provided between the linear polarizinglayer BS1 and the display panel DPN.

The polarizing layer POL may cover at least the display area DA. Forexample, the polarizing layer POL may cover the whole of the displaypanel DPN except the pad area PDA.

The polarizing layer POL may include a base film BS including the linearpolarizing layer BS1 and the retardation layer BS2. Here, theretardation layer BS2 may be provided between the display panel DPN andthe linear polarizing layer BS1.

Referring to FIGS. 8 and 11, after the polarizing layer POL is formed, afirst cutting process is performed, thereby removing a portion of thepolarizing layer POL. The first cutting process may be performed using alaser cutting device. Here, a cutting path of the polarizing layer POLthrough the first cutting process may correspond to a first laserirradiation path LIP1 through which the laser cutting device irradiateslaser.

The first laser irradiation path LIP1 may proceed along an edge of thedisplay panel DPN (hereinafter, referred to as a “display panel edge”),starting with one point adjacent to the pad area PDA in an edge of thepolarizing layer POL. That is, in the first cutting process, at least aportion of the cutting path of the polarizing layer POL may be parallelto the display panel edge.

The first laser irradiation path LIP1 may be changed at an arbitraryfirst point corresponding to the display panel edge in a directioninclined with respect to the display panel edge, e.g., a direction D2vertical to the display panel edge.

The first cutting process may be ended if the point at which the laseris irradiated reaches the outside of the polarizing layer POL.

When the polarizing layer POL is cut using the laser cutting device, theedge of the polarizing layer POL on which the first cutting process isperformed may be thermally deformed by the laser. The thermally deformedregion may be a first deformation part TCR1.

Meanwhile, particles of the polarizing layer POL may be generated duringthe first cutting process of cutting the polarizing layer POL using thelaser. In the laser irradiation path, the particles may be moved to thefront of the laser irradiation point. Therefore, the particles may notremain on the pad area PDA, particularly, the pads PD. In addition, theparticles may be removed using an air blower or the like.

Referring to FIGS. 9 and 12, after the first cutting process isperformed, a second cutting process is performed, thereby removing therest of the polarizing layer POL protruding to the outside of thedisplay panel DPN.

Like the first cutting process, the second cutting process may beperformed using a laser cutting device.

The second cutting process may be performed along the display paneledge, starting with another point adjacent to the pad area PDA in theedge of the polarizing layer POL.

In addition, a second laser irradiation path LIP2 through which thelaser cutting device irradiates laser may be changed at an arbitrarysecond point of the display panel edge in a direction inclined withrespect to the display panel edge, e.g., a direction D2 vertical to thedisplay panel edge.

The second cutting process may be ended if the point at which the laseris irradiated reaches the outside of the polarizing layer POL.

If the first point and the second point correspond to each other or areadjacent to each other, the polarizing layer POL may have a shape inwhich the region protruding to the outside of the display panel DPN isremoved through the first cutting process and the second cuttingprocess.

If the first point and the second point correspond to each other, aregion adjacent to the first point or the second point in the edge ofthe polarizing layer POL, on which the second cutting process iscompletely performed, may have a laser irradiation amount relativelyhigher than that of the other region. Therefore, a thermal deformationdegree of the region adjacent to the first point or the second point maybe high as compared with the other region. In more detail, a deformationpart TCR may be provided in the edge of the polarizing layer POL. Thedeformation part TCR may include first deformation parts TCR1 and atleast one second deformation part TCR2. The first deformation parts TCR1and the second deformation part TCR2 may be regions formed as the basefilm BS is deformed by heat. Here, a thermal deformation degree of oneof the first deformation parts TCR1 and the second deformation part TCR2may be smaller than that of the other of the first deformation partsTCR1 and the second deformation part TCR2. For example, the seconddeformation part TCR2 is a region adjacent to the first point or thesecond point, and the first deformation parts TCR1 may have a thermaldeformation degree smaller than that of the second deformation partTCR2. The second deformation part TCR2 may be a region adjacent to thefirst point or the second point. That is, the second deformation partTCR2 may be provided between the first deformation parts TCR1.

In a direction D1 parallel to the edge of the polarizing layer POL, alength of one of the first deformation parts TCR1 and the seconddeformation part TCR2 may be different from that of the other of thefirst deformation parts TCR1 and the second deformation part TCR2. Forexample, a length of the second deformation part TCR2 may be less thanthat of the first deformation parts TCR1.

In a direction D2 vertical to the edge of the polarizing layer POL, awidth of one of the first deformation parts TCR1 and the seconddeformation part TCR2 may be different from that of the other of thefirst deformation parts TCR1 and the second deformation part TCR2. Forexample, a width of the second deformation part TCR2 may be larger thanthat of the first deformation parts TCR1.

In addition, if the first point and the second point are disposedadjacent to each other but do not correspond to each other, thepolarizing layer POL on which the first cutting process and the secondcutting process are completely performed may have a shape in which aportion between the first point and the second point protrudes from theedge. In more detail, a deformation part TCR is provided in the edge ofthe polarizing layer POL. The deformation part TCR may include firstdeformation parts TCR1 formed as the base film BS is thermally deformedthrough the laser cutting, and a second deformation part TCR2 protrudingin a direction inclined with respect to the edge between the first pointand the second point. That is, the second deformation part TCR2 may beprovided between adjacent first deformation parts TCR1. Also, the seconddeformation part TCR2, as shown in FIG. 3, may have a burr or tip shape.

Meanwhile, particles of the polarizing layer POL may be generated duringthe second cutting process of cutting the polarizing layer POL using thelaser. In the laser irradiation path, the particles may be moved to thefront of the laser irradiation point. Therefore, the particles may notremain on the pad area PDA, particularly, the pads PD. In addition, theparticles may be removed using an air blower or the like.

After the second cutting process is performed, another electronicelement such as an FPC is connected to the pads PD of the pad area PDA.Here, since any particle does not remain on the pads PD, a connectionfailure caused by the particle can be prevented when the electronicelement is connected to the pads PD.

If the particles exist on the pads PD, some particles may remain on thepads PD even when the air blower or the like is used to remove theparticles. This is because a bonding strength between the particles andthe pads PD is larger than that between the particles and the polarizinglayer POL. If the particles exist on the pads PD, a connection failurebetween the pads PD and the electronic element may occur.

FIGS. 13 and 14 are plan views illustrating display devices according toembodiments of the present disclosure.

Referring to FIGS. 13 and 14, each display device may include a displaypanel DPN, a protective film (see “PF” of FIGS. 4 and 5) provided on onesurface of the display panel DPN, and a polarizing layer POL provided onthe other surface of the display panel DPN.

The display panel DPN may have a circular or elliptical shape. Also, thedisplay panel DPN may have a shape in which a portion of the circular orelliptical shape is removed. For example, the display panel DPN may havea closed curve shape including linear and curved sides.

The display panel DPN may include a display area DA and a non-displayarea NDA. The non-display area NDA may be provided adjacent to thedisplay area DA. For example, the non-display area NDA may be providedin a shape surrounding the display area DA. A pad area PDA may beprovided at one side of the non-display area NDA.

The polarizing layer POL may be provided on the other surface of thedisplay panel DPN, e.g., a surface on which an image of the displaypanel DPN is displayed. The polarizing layer POL may have a shapecorresponding to the display panel DPN. For example, the polarizinglayer POL may have a circular or elliptical shape, or have a closedcurve shape including linear and curved sides. Also, the polarizinglayer POL may cover at least the display area DA. The polarizing layerPOL may prevent the reflection of external light incident into thedisplay panel DPN.

The polarizing layer POL may include a base film BS including a linearpolarizing layer BS1 and a retardation layer BS2, and a deformation partTCR provided at an edge of the base film BS.

The deformation part TCR may have various shapes. For example, as shownin FIG. 13, the deformation part TCR may include first deformation partsTCR1 and at least one second deformation part TCR2. The firstdeformation parts TCR1 and the second deformation part TCR2 may beregions formed as the base film BS is deformed by heat. Here, a thermaldeformation degree of one of the first deformation parts TCR1 and thesecond deformation part TCR2 may be smaller than that of the other ofthe first deformation parts TCR1 and the second deformation part TCR2. Awidth of the second deformation part TCR2 may be larger than that of thefirst deformation parts TCR1. A length of the second deformation partTCR2 may be smaller than that of the first deformation parts TCR1.

In addition, as shown in FIG. 14, the deformation part TCR may includefirst deformation parts TCR1 formed as the base film BS is thermallydeformed, and a second deformation part TCR2 provided between the firstdeformation parts TCR1, the second deformation part TCR2 protruding in adirection inclined with respect to an edge of the polarizing layer POL.Here, the second deformation part TCR2 may have a burr or tip shape.

Meanwhile, in FIGS. 13 and 14, a case where one second deformation partTCR2 is provided in the deformation part TCR is illustrated as anexample, but the present disclosure is not limited thereto. For example,the deformation part TCR may include a plurality of second deformationparts TCR2. In this case, each of the second deformation parts TCR2 maybe provided between adjacent first deformation parts TCR1 among thefirst deformation parts TCR.

FIGS. 15 to 20 are plan views illustrating display devices according toembodiments of the present disclosure.

Referring to FIGS. 15 to 20, each display device may include a displaypanel DPN, a protective film (see “PF” of FIGS. 4 and 5) provided on onesurface of the display panel DPN, and a polarizing layer POL provided onthe other surface of the display panel DPN.

The display panel DPN may have a closed curve shape. For example, thedisplay panel DPN may have the shape of a closed-shape polygon includinglinear sides. The display panel DPN may also have the shape of a circleor ellipse including curved sides. The display panel DPN may also havethe shape of a semicircle or semi-ellipse including linear and curvedsides.

The display panel DPN may include a display area DA and a non-displayarea NDA. The non-display area NDA may be provided adjacent to thedisplay area DA. For example, the non-display area NDA may be providedin a shape surrounding the display area DA. At least one pad area PDAincluding a plurality of pads PD may be provided in the non-display areaNDA. For example, two pad areas PDA respectively disposed at both sidesof the display area DA may be provided in the non-display area NDA.

The display area DA may include two first sides respectively adjacent tothe pad areas PDA, and two second sides connecting the first sides toeach other. Here, the first sides face each other, and the second sidesalso face each other. In addition, the first sides may be linear sides,and the second sides may be linear or curved sides.

The polarizing layer POL may be provided on the other surface of thedisplay panel DPN, e.g., a surface on which an image of the displaypanel DPN is displayed. The polarizing layer POL may have a shapecorresponding to the display panel DPN, particularly, the display areaDA. For example, the polarizing layer POL may have a closed curve shapecovering at least the display area DA.

The polarizing layer POL may include a base film BS including a linearpolarizing layer BS1 and a retardation layer BS2, and deformation partsTCR provided at an edge of the base film BS, particularly, the secondsides.

The deformation parts TCR may have various shapes. Hereinafter, shapesof the deformation parts TCR will be described.

As shown in FIGS. 15 and 18, the deformation parts TCR may be regionsformed as the base film BS is deformed by heat. Each of the deformationpart TCR may include first deformation parts TCR1 and a seconddeformation part TCR2. Here, the second deformation part TCR2 may beprovided between the first deformation parts TCR1. A thermal deformationdegree of the first deformation parts TCR1 may be different from that ofthe second deformation part TCR2. Here, a thermal deformation degree ofthe first deformation parts TCR1 may be smaller than that of the seconddeformation part TCR2. A width of the second deformation part TCR2 maybe larger than that of the first deformation parts TCR1. A length of thesecond deformation part TCR2 may be smaller than that of the firstdeformation parts TCR1.

As shown in FIGS. 16 and 19, each of the deformation parts TCR mayinclude first deformation parts TCR1 formed as the base film BS isthermally deformed, and a second deformation part TCR2 provided betweenthe first deformation parts TCR1. The second deformation part TCR2 mayprotrude in a direction inclined with respect to the edge of thepolarizing layer POL. For example, the second deformation part TCR2 mayhave a burr or tip shape.

As shown in FIGS. 17 and 20, each of the deformation parts TCR mayinclude first deformation parts TCR1 formed as the base film BS isthermally deformed, and a second deformation part TCR2 provided betweenthe first deformation parts TCR1. Here, the second deformation part TCR2may be provided between the first deformation parts TCR1. The seconddeformation part TCR2 of the deformation part TCR corresponding to oneof the second sides may be different from the second deformation partTCR2 of the deformation part TCR corresponding to the other of thesecond sides. For example, the second deformation part TCR2 of thedeformation part TCR corresponding to one of the second sides may be athermally deformed region. In addition, the second deformation part TCR2of the deformation part TCR corresponding to the other of the secondsides may have a burr or tip shape protruding in a direction inclinedwith respect to the edge of the polarizing layer POL.

Meanwhile, in FIGS. 15 to 20, a case where one second deformation partTCR2 is provided in one deformation part TCR is illustrated as anexample, but the present disclosure is not limited thereto. For example,the deformation part TCR may include a plurality of second deformationparts TCR2. In this case, each of the second deformation parts TCR2 maybe provided between adjacent first deformation parts TCR1 among thefirst deformation parts TCR.

FIGS. 21 and 22 are images illustrating that particles remain in a padarea PDA as laser cutting is performed on a polarizing layer. FIGS. 23and 24 are images illustrating that a particle does not remain in thepad area PDA as the laser cutting is performed on the polarizing layerin accordance with one embodiment.

Referring to FIGS. 21 to 24, a display device may include a displaypanel (see “DPN” of FIG. 1) and a polarizing layer POL provided on thedisplay panel DPN.

The display panel DPN may include a display area (see “DA” of FIGS. 2and 3) and a non-display area (see “NDA” of FIGS. 2 and 3), and a padarea PDA including a plurality of pads (see “PD” of FIGS. 2 and 3) maybe provided at one side of the non-display area NDA. Here, the pads PDmay be input/output terminals that allow the display panel DPN to beelectrically connected to another electronic element, e.g., an FPC.

The polarizing layer POL may be cut using laser to expose the pad areaPDA.

Meanwhile, in the cutting of the polarizing layer POL, particles mayremain or may not remain in the pad area PDA, based on an irradiationpath LIP of the laser irradiated onto the polarizing layer POL.

The particles may be generated in the process of cutting the polarizinglayer POL using the laser. In the irradiation path LIP of the laser, theparticles may be moved to the front of the irradiation path LIP of thelaser at a point at which the laser is irradiated.

As shown in FIGS. 21 and 22, when the irradiation path LIP of the laseris ended as it proceeds in a direction of the pad area PDA, theparticles may be moved in the direction of the pad area PDA. Therefore,the particles may remain on the pad area PDA. If the particles remain onthe pad area PDA, a connection failure between the pads PD and theelectronic element may occur due to the particles that remain on the padarea PDA.

In addition, as shown in FIGS. 23 and 24, if the irradiation path LIP ofthe laser proceeds in a direction distant (away) from the pad area PDA,starting with a point adjacent to the pad area PDA, the particles may bemoved in the direction distant from the pad area PDA. Therefore, theparticles may not remain on the pad area PDA. If the particles are notremaining on the pads PD, a connection failure between the pads PD andthe electronic element, which occurs when the pads PD are connected tothe electronic element, can be prevented due to the particles.

As described above, in the fabricating method for the display device,the polarizing layer is cut in the state in which the polarizing layeris attached to the display panel, and any particle generated in thecutting of the polarizing layer do not remain in the pad area of thedisplay panel. Thus, when the pads of the pad area are connected toanother electronic element such as an FPC, a connection failure can beprevented.

Example embodiments have been disclosed herein, and although specificterms are employed, they are used and are to be interpreted in a genericand descriptive sense only and not for purpose of limitation. In someinstances, as would be apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art asof the filing of the present application, features, characteristics,and/or elements described in connection with a particular embodiment maybe used singly or in combination with features, characteristics, and/orelements described in connection with other embodiments unless otherwisespecifically indicated. Accordingly, it will be understood by those ofskill in the art that various changes in form and details may be madewithout departing from the spirit and scope of the present disclosure asset forth in the following claims.

What is claimed is:
 1. A polarizing layer comprising: a base film on onesurface of a display panel; and a deformation part entirely provided atan entire edge of an outline of the base film corresponding to anoutline of the display panel, wherein the deformation part includesfirst deformation parts formed as the base film is deformed by heat, andat least one second deformation part provided between the firstdeformation parts adjacent to each other, wherein each of the firstdeformation parts is formed continuously at the entire edge of theoutline of the base film except the at least one second deformationpart, and wherein the second deformation part is a region formed as thebase film is deformed by heat, and a thermal deformation degree of thesecond deformation part is larger than a thermal deformation degree ofthe at least one of the first deformation parts.
 2. The polarizing layerof claim 1, wherein, in a direction parallel to the edge, a length ofthe second deformation part is smaller than a length of at least one ofthe first deformation parts.
 3. The polarizing layer of claim 2,wherein, in a direction relative to the edge, a width of the seconddeformation part is larger than a width of the at least one of the firstdeformation parts.
 4. The polarizing layer of claim 2, wherein thesecond deformation part has a shape protruding from the edge.
 5. Thepolarizing layer of claim 2, wherein the base film includes two firstsides facing each other, and two second sides facing each other, thesecond sides connecting the first sides to each other, wherein thesecond deformation part is provided at each of the second sides.
 6. Thepolarizing layer of claim 1, wherein the base film includes: a linearpolarizing layer; and a retardation layer provided on the linearpolarizing layer.
 7. The polarizing layer of claim 6, wherein theretardation layer allows the phase of light incident thereinto to bemoved by ¼λ.
 8. A display device comprising: a display panel including adisplay area and a non-display area adjacent to the display area; and apolarizing layer provided on one surface of the display panel, thepolarizing layer covering at least the display area, wherein thepolarizing layer includes: a base film; and a deformation part entirelyprovided at an entire edge of an outline of the base film correspondingto an outline of the display panel, wherein the deformation partincludes first deformation parts formed as the base film is deformed byheat, and at least one second deformation part provided between thefirst deformation parts adjacent to each other, wherein each of thefirst deformation parts is formed continuously at the entire edge of theoutline of the base film except the at least one second deformationpart, and wherein the second deformation part is a region formed as thebase film is deformed by heat, and a thermal deformation degree of thesecond deformation part is larger than a thermal deformation degree ofthe at least one of the first deformation parts.
 9. The display deviceof claim 8, wherein the base film includes: a linear polarizing layer;and a retardation layer provided between the linear polarizing layer andthe display panel.
 10. The display device of claim 8, wherein, in adirection parallel to the edge of the base film, a length of the seconddeformation part is smaller than a length of at least one of the firstdeformation parts.
 11. The display device of claim 10, wherein, in adirection relative to the edge of the base film, a width of the seconddeformation part is larger than a width of the at least one of the firstdeformation parts.
 12. The display device of claim 10, wherein thesecond deformation part has a shape protruding from the edge of the basefilm.
 13. The display device of claim 8, wherein the non-display areaincludes pad areas respectively provided at two sides of the displayarea, wherein the edge of the base film includes two first sidesrespectively adjacent to the pad areas, the first sides facing eachother, and two second sides facing each other, the second sidesconnecting the first sides to each other, wherein the second deformationpart is provided at each of the second sides.
 14. The display device ofclaim 13, wherein the second deformation part of one of the second sidesis identical to the second deformation part of the other of the secondsides.
 15. The display device of claim 14, wherein, in a directionparallel to the edge of the base film, a length of the seconddeformation part is smaller than a length of the at least one of thefirst deformation parts, and a width of the second deformation part islarger than a width of the at least one of the first deformation parts.16. The display device of claim 14, wherein the second deformation parthas a shape protruding from the edge of the base film.
 17. The displaydevice of claim 13, wherein the second deformation part of one of thesecond sides is different from the second deformation part of the otherof the second sides.
 18. The display device of claim 17, wherein thesecond deformation part of the other at least one of the second sideshas a shape protruding in a direction inclined with respect to the edgeof the base film.
 19. The display device of claim 8, further comprisinga protective film provided on an other surface of the display panel.